Vacant building in Chattanooga burns; arson charge leveled

October 19th, 2012by Staff Report in Local Regional News

Chattanooga firefighters work Thursday morning at the former Willie's Auto Parts on Rossville Boulevard. Several engines responded to the fire in the vacant business, and suspect was charged with arson.

Chattanooga fire investigators made an arrest in connection with a Thursday morning fire at a vacant Rossville Boulevard building.

Garry Mosier, 59, was charged with arson, according to a news release. Mosier was found by firefighters sitting on the grass behind the building. He was treated for smoke inhalation at a local hospital.

Mosier did not admit starting the fire, but evidence suggests he was responsible, the news release stated.

The fire broke out toward the rear of the old Willie's Auto Parts building, which Chattanooga Fire Department spokesman Bruce Garner said had been empty for some time.

Firefighters forced their way inside the building and put out the fire in about 20 minutes, Garner said.